DENVER CO (Friday April 21 2006)- The Colorado Rapids announced today the acquisition of Brazilian striker Thiago Martins from the New York Red Bulls in exchange for forward Jean Philippe Peguero. The trade also sends the Red Bulls’ 2007 First and Third Round Natural Draft picks to Colorado.

Martins who joined Major League Soccer in 2003 played two seasons with DC United before being acquired by Chivas USA in the 2005 MLS Expansion Draft.

The Sao Paolo Brazil native played a total of 22 games for the Los Angeles based club netting three goals and one assist with Chivas USA.

Peguero who was discovered by Fernando Clavijo and recommended to the Rapids coaching staff in 2004 played a total of 26 games for Colorado last season scoring seven goals and recording six assists.

TRANSACTIONSoccer-MLSColorado Rapids- Acquire forward Thiago Martins as well as 2007 First and Third Round natural draft picks from the New York Red Bulls in exchange for forward Jean Philippe Peguero.